How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Kansas City, United States

1. Crown Center

Visit the Crown Center for unique stores and attractions without the tourist trap prices. It's home to Legoland Discovery Center.

Unique Shops: Offers a variety of local and national retailers.
Affordable Dining: Has budget-friendly dining options within the complex.
Attractions: Provides a mix of entertainment and educational attractions for all ages.

Avoid the crowded bars by visiting Power & Light District during the day. Enjoy local eateries and boutique shops.

Daytime Exploration: Offers a tranquil environment to explore during the day.
Local Eateries: Home to a diverse selection of Kansas City's best restaurants.
Shopping: Features boutique shops that showcase local artisans and designers.

Avoid peak times at the Kansas City Zoo by visiting early in the morning or late afternoon. Explore the Wild Africa exhibit.

Wild Africa Exhibit: Home to African elephants, giraffes, and okapi.
Off-Peak Visits: Less crowded during early morning and late afternoon hours.
Affordable Admission: One of the most affordable large zoos in the United States.

Avoid touristy bars and restaurants in Westport by exploring its independent shops and art galleries.

Independent Shops: Features a variety of locally-owned boutiques.
Art Galleries: Home to numerous art galleries showcasing local and national artists.
Coffee Shops: Offers a collection of unique coffee shops serving up specialty drinks.

Avoid the crowds at Nelson-Atkins Museum by visiting during the week or later in the day. Explore the outdoor sculpture park.

Outdoor Sculpture Park: Features over 30 acres of green space and more than 200 sculptures.
Weekday Visits: Less crowded on weekdays compared to the weekend.
Free Admission: Enjoy free admission to the museum and permanent collection.

Avoid peak hours at The National WWI Museum by visiting early in the day. Discover the Liberty Memorial Tower.

Liberty Memorial Tower: Offers a panoramic view of Kansas City from its observation deck.
Early Visits: Less crowded in the early hours of the day.
Historical Exhibits: Provides a comprehensive look at World War I through artifacts, photographs, and personal stories.

Avoid the crowds by visiting Buck O'Neil Bridge during sunset for a stunning view of the city.

Sunset View: Offers a breathtaking sunset view over Kansas City.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a peaceful environment for relaxation and contemplation.
Historical Significance: Honors the life and legacy of Kansas City Royals legend, Buck O'Neil.

Avoid peak hours at Union Station by visiting during the day or late afternoon. Explore Science City.

Science City: Features interactive exhibits for all ages.
Daytime Visits: Less crowded during the day compared to peak hours.
Architectural Wonders: Beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture and stunning art deco details.

Avoid crowds at Theis Park by visiting during the week or later in the day. Enjoy a picnic or rent a boat.

Avoid crowds at the farmers' market by visiting during the week or earlier in the day.

Weekday Visits: Less crowded on weekdays compared to the weekend.
Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally made goods.
Cooking Demonstrations: Provides cooking demonstrations featuring local chefs using seasonal ingredients.

Avoid crowds at the library by visiting during off-peak hours or exploring its digital resources.

Digital Resources: Offers a wide range of online resources for research and entertainment.
Architectural Wonders: Beautiful Art Deco architecture and stunning murals.
Off-Peak Visits: Less crowded during off-peak hours.

Avoid crowds at The Money Museum by visiting during the week or earlier in the day.

Weekday Visits: Less crowded on weekdays compared to the weekend.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits exploring the history of money and currency.
Free Admission: Admission is free, but reservations are required.

Avoid crowds at The Kaufmann Center by attending a matinee performance or visiting during off-peak hours.

Matinee Performances: Offers affordable matinee performances during the week.
Off-Peak Visits: Less crowded during off-peak hours.
World-Class Performances: Home to the Kansas City Symphony and Lyric Opera of Kansas City.

Avoid crowds at The American Jazz Museum by visiting during off-peak hours or exploring its outdoor exhibits.

Outdoor Exhibits: Features outdoor art installations celebrating the history of jazz.
Off-Peak Visits: Less crowded during off-peak hours.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits exploring the history and culture of jazz.

Avoid crowds at The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures by visiting during the week or later in the day.

Weekday Visits: Less crowded on weekdays compared to the weekend.
Unique Collections: Features a vast collection of toys and miniatures dating back centuries.
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for all ages, including workshops and interactive exhibits.